UFS Invites Top Matric Learners to Apply for the 2027 Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition
The University of the Free State (UFS), in partnership with Novus Media, has officially opened applications for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2027.
For more than 40 years, this prestigious competition has recognised exceptional Grade 12 learners who demonstrate excellence in academics, sport, culture, or leadership. The competition gives outstanding matriculants the opportunity to compete for bursaries, prizes, and the prestigious title of UFS Matriculant of the Year.
If you are currently in Grade 12 during 2026 and plan to study at UFS in 2027, this competition could help fund your university studies while recognising your achievements.
Applications close on 1 August 2026.
Competition Overview
| Competition Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition |
| Institution | University of the Free State (UFS) |
| Partner | Novus Media |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Competition Type | Bursary Competition |
| Eligible Applicants | Grade 12 Learners (2026) |
| Closing Date | 1 August 2026 |
About the Competition
The UFS Matriculant of the Year Competition celebrates learners who have demonstrated outstanding achievement inside and outside the classroom.
The competition is open to learners who excel in one or more of the following areas:
- Academic achievement
- Sport
- Culture
- Leadership
Finalists have the opportunity to receive bursaries and additional prizes while being recognised as some of South Africa’s top-performing matric learners.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary competition is open to students who intend to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2027.
Applicants may pursue qualifications offered by UFS across various faculties, subject to meeting the University’s admission requirements.
Selection Process
The competition follows a multi-stage selection process.
Stage 1: Semi-Finalists
A panel of judges will review all applications and select 25 semi-finalists based on a points system that considers the information submitted in the application.
Stage 2: Finalists
From the semi-finalists, 14 finalists will be invited to attend interviews during October 2026.
Stage 3: Winner Announcement
Following the interviews, judges will select the overall winner based on:
- Personal achievements
- Leadership qualities
- Character
- Overall contribution
- Inspirational personality
The Matriculant of the Year will be announced during a prestigious gala event.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be currently in Grade 12 (Matric) during 2026.
- Be a high-achieving learner.
- Intend to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2027.
- Demonstrate outstanding achievement in at least one of the following:
- Academics
- Sport
- Culture
- Leadership
- Attend a:
- Quintile 1–5 school,
- Private school, or
- Be home-schooled.
- Agree to the competition’s terms and conditions.
Applicants who do not meet all eligibility requirements may not be considered.
Competition Benefits
Successful participants may receive:
- UFS bursaries.
- Academic recognition.
- Valuable prizes.
- Networking opportunities.
- Recognition at a prestigious awards event.
- Increased visibility for future scholarship opportunities.
Why You Should Apply
The competition offers learners an opportunity to:
- Compete for financial support for university studies.
- Gain national recognition.
- Showcase achievements beyond academics.
- Build an impressive university application profile.
- Represent their school and community.
- Join one of UFS’s longest-running student competitions.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed UFS Matriculant of the Year Entry Form.
- Postcard-size photograph wearing school uniform.
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results.
- Certified copy of Grade 12 March examination results.
- Certified copy of Grade 12 June examination results.
In addition:
- The application form must be signed by the school principal.
- The application must include the official school stamp.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Download and complete the UFS Matriculant of the Year Competition Entry
- Submit your completed application using one of the following methods:
Email Applications
Send your application to:
Use the subject line:
Attention: Linda Greyling – Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition
Hand Delivery
Deliver applications to:
UFS Student Recruitment
Wekkie Saayman Building
Corner of Rector and Graduandi Avenue
University of the Free State Campus
Bloemfontein
Attention: Linda Greyling
Application Tips
Before submitting your application:
- Complete every section of the application form.
- Ensure the principal signs the form.
- Obtain the official school stamp.
- Certify all academic results.
- Submit a clear photograph in school uniform.
- Apply before the closing date.
Closing Date
Closing Date: 1 August 2026
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Learners who are currently in Grade 12 during 2026 and plan to study at the University of the Free State in 2027.
2. Which achievements are considered?
Applicants should demonstrate excellence in:
- Academics
- Sport
- Culture
- Leadership
3. Can learners from private schools apply?
Yes. Learners from public schools, private schools, and home-school environments are all eligible.
4. How many finalists will be selected?
The judges will shortlist 25 semi-finalists, followed by 14 finalists.
5. When are interviews held?
Finalist interviews are scheduled for October 2026.
6. What documents are required?
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- School photograph
- Grade 11 results
- Grade 12 March results
- Grade 12 June results
7. When do applications close?
Applications close on 1 August 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using publicly available information about the University of the Free State (UFS) Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2027. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the University of the Free State or Novus Media. Applicants should consult the official UFS application documents and competition rules before applying.
Sources and References
- University of the Free State (UFS) – Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2027
- Novus Media
- University of the Free State Student Recruitment Office
- Department of Basic Education (DBE)
- National Student Financial Aid and Scholarship Guidelines
